Parvovirus in dogs
 

Parvovirus, commonly known as Parvo is a devistating illness which can affect any unvaccinated dog. Especially puppy.

Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract, once symptoms occur time is of the essence, most deaths occur 2-3 days after symptoms show.

The signs of Parvo are vomiting and diarreah ( usually bloody) which results in weightloss and dehydration, if not diagnosed or treated, death will soon follow.

The virus is very hardy and can survive cold, hot, moist environments.
It is typically spread through the feces of an infected dog, shed after 2 weeks of infection.
The virus can be brought into your home by your shoes,friends shoes ect. So not vaccinating because "your dog stays home" is NO guaratee that they will not come in contact with the virus.

Some breeds are said to be more suseptical to the virus than others, these breeds are the Rottweiler, Doberman, German Shepherd, Pitbull, Labrador Retreivers ect... Although it is important to remember that ANY dog can be infected if not vaccinated.

Once parvo has been diagnosed by your veterinarian there are treatment options that can end up being quite costly. Your puppy could be hooked up to an IV for upwards of a week at the vet clinic. You could be looking at bills that could be easily upward of $1000.00 treatment. Depending on the stage your dog is in chances of survival can be slim. Which is again why you must act immediately if your dog is displaying any of these symptoms. Immediate trip to the vet is nessecary.

It is important to have your puppy ( regardless of breed) vaccinated against this and other viruses and diseases.
It is always better to Prevent than rely on a cure.

Thanks for sharing the information.

Had experience fighting with parvo, but unfortunately, we lost to it. I miss my girl so much. :cry: